Programming

Our programming is centered around connecting you with your surroundings and furthering your relationship with our community. You will learn about the history of Bend and it’s growth over time, hear from city officials and local non-profits, and understand all of the ways you can get involved to give back to our community.

  • 5:00—Check In

    The event officially begins! Grab a drink and some delicious appetizers before we begin with our scheduled programming.

  • 5:30—Programming

    Join us for a rich discussion on the history of Bend, our key values, and where we are going in the future.

  • Networking

    After our programming you will be able to connect with our speakers, community leaders and other attendees!

Bend 101: Tourism—How to Measure Impact

May 7, Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Central Oregon (UUFCO)

Spend an evening with us at Bend 101—a welcoming gathering designed for new neighbors and long-time locals alike who want to deepen their connection to this special place we call home.

Join us for an engaging Bend 101 focused on tourism and how we measure the impact of visitors on our community. This session will include an overview of the transient room tax (TRT) and how tourism dollars support key initiatives in Bend and Central Oregon. We’ll also hear from a panel of local experts who will share insights on the benefits and challenges of tourism and how data helps inform decisions about our region’s future. Whether you’re new to Bend or a long-time resident, this is your chance to better understand how tourism shapes our community and economy.

Thanks to our sponsors, The Ladd Group with Cascade Hasson Sotheby’s International Real Estate, OSU-Cascades, Providence Health Plan, City of Bend, First American Title, and Deschutes Brewery!

Register Now
Damon Runberg

Damon Runberg,
State Economist,
Business Oregon

Brian Ladd, Principal Broker,
Cascade Sotheby’s, Ladd Group

Lauren Burke, Director of Marketing & Communications, Mt. Bachelor

Kelly Cannon-Miller,
Executive Director, Deschutes Historical Museum

Zavier Borja, Director Destination Stewardship, Visit Bend

Cyrus Mooney, Business Development Manager, City of Bend

Todd Montgomery , Director OSU-Cascades Sustainable Tourism Lab

Topics Covered in Previous Programs:

  • Growth in Bend

  • Houselessness in Bend

  • Water Use and Allocation & Wildfire and Smoke

  • Land Use and Growth

  • Arts & Culture

  • Higher Education

  • Sustainability & Tourism

  • Healthcare in Central Oregon

  • Bend’s Parks and Libraries

Watch Past Events

Some of our previous Bend 101 events were recorded for future viewing. Take a look to get a sense of what it’s like to attend.


 

Testimonials

Here is what past Bend 101 attendees had to say about their experience.

“Really enjoyed the historical and economic presentations. Learning how Bend has evolved as a city was very interesting and informative and both presenters were excellent and worked extremely well together.”

— Bend 101 Attendee

“I loved learning the history of Bend. I think it's important to know how a place came to be and the changes it went through in order to appreciate where it is today, as well as how to move forward with respect for those have called Bend home for decades. I am very conscious of the fact that I am new here and shouldn't try to make Bend conform to my desires. I moved here because I liked Bend, I will strive to see that it remains the place I moved here for.”

— Bend 101 Attendee

“I was glad to see that the program addressed both the positive aspects of Bend’s history and culture as well as the challenges... Bend is not unlike many other cities around the country in terms of dealing with issues. Programs such as Bend 101 can be the catalyst for those who are fortunate to be able to afford to live here to get involved and become “part of the solution””

— Bend 101 Attendee